William Samuel Malinoff

Bill was the oldest of 2 children, born to Joseph George and Belle Malinoff in Detroit Michigan. He dropped out of high school and joined the Air Force at 18. He was honorably discharged shortly before his 20th birthday. After an epic motorcycle ride across the country to return to Michigan from California, Bill opened a moving business with his father. He successfully ran the business for several years until his father passed away, which was a turning point in Bill’s life that led him to return to school. Subsequently, he received his GED, graduated from Wayne State with a bachelor’s degree and graduated from Cooley Law School with a JD. It was at Cooley Law School where he met (and later married) the apple of his eye, Julie. Upon graduating law school and having always been his own boss, he opened his own law firm which he successfully ran for over 3 decades.

Bill was an avid adventurer, often being in his element while flying, sailing, traveling with his RV, or on a road trip in his car or motorcycle. His vehicles and stories are too numerous to recount, but he loved hiking and exploring the country, with the view of the south rim of the Grand Canyon from the veranda of the El Tovar being his favorite spot.

Bill’s intensity and displays of affection were a source of joy for all who knew him. Rarely did he call those he loved by their formal first name, but generally had a nickname for all those close to him. He was a rock to many in the face of adversity, often counseling friends and relatives in addition to his clients on legal matters. Family was the most important thing in the world to Bill and his legacy left an indelible mark on those who were fortunate to know and love him.

Bill is survived by his wife Julie, sister Frances Malinoff (Brian Burd), children Jennifer Debiaw (Dana), George Malinoff (Chelsea), Jacob Malinoff (Amanda) and grandchildren Allan, Lockett, Evelyn, Adella, Abel, Olivia and Oren along with many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in rest by his parents Joseph George and Belle.

A visitation will be held on Monday, August 28th beginning at 10:00 am, followed by a Celebration of Life service at 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to:

Grand Canyon Youth (https://gcyouth.org/) or the Charlevoix Public Library (https://www.charlevoixlibrary.org/about-cpl/donate/) in honor of Bill Malinoff.